AROUND CRANBURY by Lorraine Sedor: Local girl donates to diabetes research

Holiday spirit leads to charity

By: Lorraine Sedor
   Ashley Cukier recently visited the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) to present checks totaling $12,500 from her recent sale of hand-made flip flops.
   Ashley worked tirelessly to produce hand-decorated sandals that she sold during the year to raise the money.
   Ashley, who has diabetes, received orders from as far away as Portugal and England, and all across the United States. Her product was featured on the JDRF Web site, and she received a number of corporate matches.
   Congratulations to Ashley for her inspiring efforts!

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   Among the many individuals who make a difference at the Cranbury Museum, there is Alyssa Pavley. Alyssa, a senior at Princeton High School who was recently accepted at New York University, spends time each month giving tours at the museum. This year she put together charming Christmas decorations in the children’s bedroom. At the tea party, Alyssa could be found pouring punch and treating young visitors to cookies.
   The Cranbury Historical and Preservation Society also would like to thank all the volunteers who helped to make the Cranbury Museum look so beautiful for its annual tea party that was held earlier this month.
   The society recognizes Leigh Zink and her seventh-grade Girl Scouts, all of whom did a wonderful job plating the delicious homemade cookies; Lexis Stasi for her invaluable organizational skills; the members of the Cranbury Scout Band who delighted us with their music; Florence Kettlekamp who leads the visitors every year in the singing of traditional carols while playing a period pump organ; and all the ladies who poured the secret-recipe spiced tea to the attendees.
   The society is especially grateful to the museum curators and docents who volunteer at the Cranbury Museum not only at this wonderful event, but also throughout the year. Their dedication is what makes the museum the special and educational place that it is.
   The Cranbury Museum is located at 4 Park Pl. E. and is open every Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., except Dec. 24 and 31.
   Look for the museum’s newest exhibit on World War II coming in January. The holiday display will be on view at the Museum one last time on Sunday, Jan. 7.
   Anyone who is interested in becoming a museum volunteer can contact Lisa Beach at (609) 409-1289.

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   On Saturday, Jan. 27 at 7 p.m., the First Presbyterian Church in Cranbury will host a gourmet-style dinner to raise funds for the annual church mission trip to Guatemala. Proceeds will provide the opportunity to purchase much-needed medical supplies for the people, as well as materials and equipment for building projects in Guatemala.
   Attendees will be treated to a choice of filet mignon, chicken or salmon as the main course at $50 for each person. Additional donations are most welcome. Organizers also are arranging to have live entertainment for the diners’ enjoyment.
   Tickets for this event are limited, so don’t delay in purchasing yours. Contact the church office at (609) 395-0897 as soon as possible.

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   The time for New Year’s resolutions is approaching quickly. If you are looking for a new workout option, look no further than Maplewood Avenue.
   Optimal Exercise, owned by personal trainer Bill DeSimone, offers individual training and workout sessions by appointment. Optimal Exercise will tailor a program to suit every clients’ needs and will work with them to get the most out of each session.
   The small studio provides an intimate, inviting setting and Bill assures that you won’t be surrounded by dozens of other exercisers. For information, stop in to see Bill at 27B Maplewood Ave., or contact him at 409-7710.
Residents may contact Ms. Sedor by phone at (609) 655-3386, by e-mail at [email protected] and by mail at 32 Evans Dr., Cranbury, NJ 08512.